Principal Natural Resources Scientist

A well‑established, multidisciplinary environmental and infrastructure consulting firm serving public and private sector clients throughout the Midwest. The organization is known for its strong regulatory expertise, collaborative culture, and long‑term project partnerships with municipalities, transportation agencies, utilities, and developers. The firm offers stability, technical depth, and opportunities for senior professionals to take meaningful ownership of projects and client relationships.

Job Title

Principal Natural Resources Scientist

Location

Rolling Meadows, IL (In‑office with flexibility based on project and team needs)

Role Summary

This principal‑level role provides technical leadership and strategic oversight for natural resources investigations and environmental permitting efforts supporting infrastructure and development projects. The position blends advanced scientific expertise with regulatory strategy, client leadership, project oversight, and mentorship of technical staff. You will play a key role in shaping permitting approaches, guiding project teams, and contributing to long‑term practice growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee natural resources investigations including wetland delineations, stream and habitat assessments, and environmental field studies.
• Serve as a technical authority for environmental permitting and regulatory compliance strategy.
• Develop and guide permitting approaches for infrastructure, transportation, and development projects.
• Review and approve environmental reports, permit applications, and regulatory submittals.
• Act as a senior technical and client‑facing representative with agencies, stakeholders, and project partners.
• Coordinate with federal, state, and local regulatory agencies to support approvals and compliance.
• Provide project‑level guidance on environmental review processes and regulatory requirements.
• Support scope development, project planning, schedules, and technical task coordination.
• Contribute to proposal development, cost estimates, and technical approaches.
• Mentor senior and junior scientists, fostering technical excellence and professional growth.
• Support quality control, best practices, and continuous improvement within the natural resources practice.

Required Background

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Biology, Ecology, or a related discipline.
• Advanced degree and/or professional certifications preferred but not required.
• 10+ years of experience in environmental consulting, natural resources, environmental permitting, or a related technical field.
• Demonstrated experience leading or providing senior oversight on environmental permitting for infrastructure or development projects.
• Broad knowledge of environmental regulations such as Clean Water Act Sections 404/401, NEPA, Endangered Species Act, and applicable state and local requirements.
• Experience coordinating with regulatory agencies and multidisciplinary project teams.
• Ability to oversee technical work, manage priorities, and support multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong written, verbal, organizational, and client‑facing communication skills.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites as needed.

Compensation & Benefits

Base Salary Range: $85,000 – $160,000, commensurate with experience

Benefits include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with employer contribution
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Parental leave
• Life, disability, and AD&D insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional development and training support
• Cell phone reimbursement
• Long‑term career stability and advancement opportunities within an established consulting environment

How to Apply

Directly apply here and if this role aligns with your background and current career goals, I'd welcome a conversation to discuss the opportunity in more detail.